Operating the Camera

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Operation

There are only three shooting modes you should need to use while using our cameras. All other modes on the Mode Dial are reserved for people who either do not understand how to use cameras, or prefer not to think while taking photographs. Since the purpose of this class is to learn how to properly use a camera and to intelligently take photographs with an artistic intent in mind, using any modes other than three below is strictly forbidden. Actually, when we first learn the camera, we ONLY use Manual Mode.

Manual Mode

M.jpgThe best way to learn about how the camera works is to operate the camera in "M" or Manual Mode. In manual mode, you are forced to learn the basic camera controls. You have full control over the shutter speed and aperture, and can make intelligent decisions about exposure and how the final image should look. While looking through the viewfinder, you must use the camera's light meter to be sure the exposure isn't too light or too dark. Turn the Mode Dial to M, use the Main Dial to adjust the shutter speed, hold the Av Button with your thumb and scroll the Main Dial to adjust the aperture.


Shutter-Priority Mode


Tv.jpgIn some cases, you may want to have absolute control over the shutter speed, but you don't care what the aperture is set at. In "Tv" (stands for Time Value) or Shutter-Priority Mode, you set the shutter speed and the camera automatically sets the aperture. Turn the Mode Dial to Tv and use the Main Dial to adjust the shutter speed.



Aperture-Priority Mode


Av.jpgIn some cases, you may want to have control over the aperture, but you don't care too much about the shutter speed. In "Av" (stands for Aperture Value) or Aperture-Priority Mode, you set the aperture, and the camera automatically sets the shutter speed. Turn the Mode Dial to Av and use the Main Dial to adjust the aperture.